Many jokes about the Scottish weather have been told to us, but most of them are untrue. Although Scotland occasionally experiences extremely hot or extremely cold weather, the country’s climate is actually quite mild and highly variable. There is no such thing as bad weather—only inappropriate attire, according to an adage from Scotland. Even though Scotland is a very small nation to study abroad, one of the most unexpected aspects of its climate is how widely it differs from one location to another. It frequently happens that after 20 minutes of driving, the road conditions have changed drastically. Because of the climate’s unpredictability, it’s not unusual to experience all four seasons in a single day.

SPRING

During the months of March, April, and May, you can anticipate typical maximum temperatures to range from roughly 7 °C (45 °F) to 13 °C (55 °F). This is a lovely time of year to travel because rhododendrons, cherry blossoms, bluebells, and daffodils all come into flower. There are many things to do, and the wildlife is lively. The air is also gentler. There is a terrific selection of galleries, museums, and other attractions to keep you busy all year long, regardless of the weather, even if you do suffer one or two April showers.

SUMMER

East Beach at LossiemouthThe East Beach at Lossiemouth, Highlands

The warmest months in Scotland are typically June, July, and August, with average maximum temperatures averaging between 15 and 17 °C (59 and 63 °F). Due to Scotland’s high latitude, we frequently get a prolonged twilight and delightful long summer days. At midsummer, Lerwick, Shetland, has nearly four hours more daylight than London does in the north of the nation. The far north of Scotland doesn’t actually experience full darkness at this time of year. Additionally, you can squeeze a lot into your summer vacation thanks to the additional daylight hours. Anyone up for a game of golf at midnight?

AUTUMN

Autumn leaves CrieffLady Mary’s Walk, Crieff

Scotland is anticipated to experience temperatures in the Autumn (or Fall) between the range of 8°C (46°F) to 14°C (57°F) from September through November. As the trees transition from green to ferocious reds, oranges, and yellows, the colors of October are striking and brilliant. It’s the ideal time of year to take pictures while enjoying a reviving autumnal stroll through the forest.

WINTER

Snow Wallace MonumentWallace Monument, Stirling

The coldest months in Scotland are typically December, January, and February, with average high temperatures hovering around 5°C (41°F). Scotland experiences between 15 and 20 days on average with snowfall. However, the Highlands’ peaks and summits receive snowfall for about 100 days each year. Although it varies from year to year, the snowsports season typically lasts from November through April. The five ski resorts in Scotland provide some of the most affordable snowboarding and skiing in all of Europe.